Trip Introduction
Overview of Makalu Sherpani Col Pass Trek
The walk over the Makalu Sherpani Col Pass Trek is a remarkable and exciting experience. The Makalu and Sherpani routes lead you through the remarkable tropical greenery of Arun Valley to the snowfields of Mt. Makalu in the northeastern region of Nepal. The Makalu and Sherpani Pass Trek provides an exciting journey to Makalu Base Camp (5,250m) and a close-up view of the mountain (Mt. Makalu 8,481).
In addition, there is the opportunity to experience firsthand the culture and traditions of hill and mountain communities, as well as the flora and fauna of isolated eastern Nepal, and the dates chosen should ensure the finest weather and spectacular views.
Additionally, you can discover Makalu-Barun National Park and observe endangered species such as the red panda and snow leopard. You may learn about the culture and customs of the Rai and Sherpa people who inhabit the park. Local residents’ hospitality will make you feel at ease.
Along with this, you will be able to take pleasure in a leisurely journey while taking in the breathtaking views of Lhotse (8516 m), Baruntse (7220 m), Chamlang (7319 m), the Mt. Kanchenjunga massif (8091 m), and Mt. Everest (8848.86 m).
Makalu Sherpani Col Pass Trek Route Map
Our adventure begins with a quick 45-minute flight to Tumlingtar at 400 meters altitude. Then we’ll take a scenic drive to Num, where you’ll be treated to breathtaking views of lush hillsides. The actual journey begins as we cross the Num Ridge. We pass through Lumband fields and cross a suspension bridge before entering dense forests on our way to Seduwa. The journey continues to Tashi Gaun, a lovely hillside village. We continue on to Mumbuk, where we can see both snowy peaks and green landscapes. The next leg of our journey to Nehe Kharka entails descending into a narrow valley and navigating some difficult terrain.
The majestic Makalu Base Camp, surrounded by icy paths and snow-capped peaks, is our ultimate destination. The following days will take us to Hillary Camp and High Camp, where you can take in breathtaking Himalayan views. The most difficult part of our journey begins next when we cross two high passes above 6,000 meters: Sherpa Col and West Col.
We’ll continue our journey by trekking through snowy terrain from Baruntse Base Camp to Amphu Labtse Base Camp. Then, after descending through rugged terrain, we’ll arrive at Imja Lake Camp. We continue our descent by navigating the Chhukung glacier, eventually arriving at Pangboche and then Monjo. Finally, our trek concludes with a flight back to Kathmandu from Lukla.
Is Makalu Sherpani Col Pass Trek Difficult?
Without a doubt, the Makalu Sherpani Col Pass trek is one of the trickiest and most challenging treks in Nepal. It is a long trip that includes crossing three mountain passes with elevations above 5000 meters. The trail offers remoteness, changeable terrain, and high-altitude passes.
You must be mentally and physically fit to take part in this trek. We suggest that you jog, visit the gym, or go on a few short treks around the area. Close to 7-8 hours a day of walking should be feasible for you. After months of hard preparation, you will be awarded a once-in-a-lifetime journey and breathtaking natural beauty.
Makalu Sherpani Col Pass Trek Permit
You need to obtain four different permits in order to do the Makalu Sherpani Col Pass Trek. They are: Trekkers’ Information Management System (TIMS), Makalu Barun National Park Entry Permit, Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit, and Pasang Lhamu Municipality Entrance Fee.
Both Makalu and Everest Region are connected by the Sherpani Col Pass route, so you need to have permits to enter both Makalu and Everest Region. All the fares from the permits will be utilized for the betterment of the respective region.
Note: In most cases, while preparing official paperwork, you will be required to submit passport-size photos along with a copy of your passport. So, be sure to bring at least 8–10 passport-size photos. We will complete all legal requirements and acquire all required permits for your trip.
Itinerary of Makalu Sherpani Col Pass Trek
Before you start the Makalu Sherpani Col Pass Trek, we must ensure that all paperwork and other preparations are made. We will also have a meet-up and pre-trip discussion with the trek guide in our office.
We will then have an early flight to Tumlingtar which takes around 45 min. After reaching there, we will then drive to Num allowing you to pass through dramatic lush mid-hill sceneries.
Today we will start the trek from the western part of the Num ridge. We will then pass through the fields of Lumband and cross a suspension bridge before ascending towards the forest. We then cross a river and climb a steep path of dense forest that leads you to the Seduwa.
After the early morning breakfast, we will continue to ascend towards the ridge. The trial is bounded by the Kasuwa river in the east and the Ipsuwa river in the west. The hike will be easy as you will be passing through the hillside, farming fields, and villages. After 5 to 6 hours of trek, we finally reach Tashi Gaun.
Acclimatization is essential while you are traveling to a higher altitude. Today you will explore the Tashi Gaun or rest here and make it suitable for higher altitudes.
Today the walk is going to be relatively tougher than on other days. We have to pass through many steep trails at higher elevations. After some hours of walk, we will then climb through the forests to a stream and then rise towards a ridge. From here, the trekking trail gets steeper and passes through a grazing area. Finally, the trail will take us to the summit of the ridge through stone stairs and small lakes. After you reach the top of the ridge you will have to descend for some minutes to reach Khongma.
Today we will start our trek with the mesmerizing view of snowy peaks and beautiful landscapes surrounding us. We follow the gentle trekking path will some ups and downs. If the day will be snowy then please stick with your guide, because the trial onward can be quite misleading. As we walk further we will ascend to Keke La and then Tutu La pass. You will then later notice the latter topped with a small chorten. The gentle descent from here takes us back to the green vegetation of Mumbuk.
After an early morning wake up we will have breakfast and start to descend sharply into the narrow valley. We will then cross the Barun River beyond Tamatan Kharka. Ahead the trial will be more challenging on the latter end. Before racing the Mehe Kharka the pass will be more challenging because of the slippery and uneven rocks in the trail.
Today the trek will be going to be long and energy-draining. From Nene Kharka we make our way to Shershong and then we will reach Makalu Base Camp. The trial to base camp is somehow adventurous with ice on approach and snowy peaks ahead of us. Mt. Makalu makes its grand presence as we get close to it.
As we go further, the settlement will be less and you will be surrounded by the woods. Further, we will walk via the west side of Barun Glacier. We will then stride through rocks, caves, and moraine glaciers. Today we will have plenty of time to experience the Himalayan panorama.
Today we will be walking into the steep climb from Hillary camp. During the walk, you will witness the dramatic scene of Mt. Makalu, Baruntse, Kali Himal, Chamling, and Pyramid Peak.
Today will be the toughest and longest day in this entire trek. Save your energy because today you will be crossing two high passes above 6,000. We have to cross the pass as fast as possible, so we are going to start our trek at morning about 3:00 AM. the crossing of Sherpa Col and West Col is often compared to peak climbing in Nepal. Because both are regarded as challenging and beautiful.
Today we might walk through the snowy terrain to reach Amphu Labtse Base Camp. After some hours of walking through the rugged terrain, we will reach our destination.
Today we will descend down from Amphu Labtse Base Camp passing through a snowy path and rugged terrain. Continue your trek along the glaciated path and head down to the Imja Lake Camp.
Today you will continue to descend down along the Chhukung glacier towards Dudh Koshi Valley. After a short descent along the glaciated path, you will reach the Sherpa village of Dingboche. Then you will continue down toward Imja river uphill to Pangboche.
After early morning breakfast we will again start to descend back to Namche Bazar. After some hours we will then reach the bustling town of Monjo.
Today will be the end of your trek as we will fly from Lukla to Kathmandu. As we go down to Lukla, the legendary view of Everest will go furter away. We will then cross the high suspension bridge multiple time to reach the village of Phakding. After some additional walk from Phakding, we finally reach Lukla.
After breakfast, we will have an adventurous flight leaving Lukla airport. After about 35 minutes of flying through the green hill and the last view of mighty peaks, we will reach to Kathmandu.
The 18-day Makalu Sherpani Col Trekking itinerary is only for guidelines. You can also extend the trek according to your own taste. The above trekking hours are also estimated for general ideas only. The itinerary also depends upon traffic and weather conditions on your activity date.
Includes/Excludes
What's Included?
- Bus Fare during the trek as per itinerary
- Domestic Flights from KTM to Tumligtar and Lukla to KTM
- Permit Cards Expenses
- Experienced Himalayan trek guide for 17 days
- One porter for two of you for trekking for 16 days (prepare to give max. 15 kgs’ luggage from each of you so that it will not exceed 30 kg. for your porter)
- Tent and Sleeping Mattress while camping
- Accommodation (except Kathmandu)
- Staff insurance
- 16 x set breakfast, 16 x set lunch and 16 x set dinner while on the trek
- Purified drinking water during the entire trekking as per itinerary
- General first aid medicine kit
- Complimentary T-shirt
- Duffle bag during the trek
What's Excluded?
- International Flight Fare
- Accommodation in Kathmandu since there are many possibilities available.
- Personnel expenses of any kind
- Any Travel Insurance
- Any additional cost due to natural calamity and unforeseen circumstances.
- Tips for any staff and guide
- Anything that is not listed in the “PRICE INCLUDES” section above
Essential Information - Makalu Sherpani Col Pass Trek
Accommodation on Makalu Sherpani Col Pass Trek
The Makalu Sherpani Col Pass Trek will combine camping with teahouse accommodation. In general, there are lodges from the Num market to the Makalu base camp. Beyond the Makalu base camp and up to the Amphu Laptsa-la pass, we sleep in tents. After the Amphu Laptsa Pass, lodging is provided in lodges till Lukla.
It is possible that the plan will shift depending on the conditions.
Food on Makalu Sherpani Col Pass Trek
There are only a few lodges and tea houses along the route, unlike on the main trekking trails. Prior to reaching base camp, tea houses and communities where one can dine or stay become very limited and unavailable. Therefore, we need to carry sufficient food and water for the trail.
The majority of the regions in Nepal that have access to food serve organic Nepalese meals that are designed to provide a balanced diet.
Best season to trek Makalu Sherpani Col Pass
The months of March to June and September to November offer the most favorable temperatures for trekking through the Makalu Sherpani Col Pass. This time around, the weather holds steady, and the visibility is significantly improved.
Related Article: Best Time to Trek in Nepal
Altitude Sickness & Acclimatization of Makalu Sherpani Col Pass Trek
In these high-altitude zones, there is a danger of altitude-related disorders such as acute mountain sickness, high-altitude pulmonary edema (HAPE), and high-altitude cerebral edema (HACE). To guarantee safety, it is crucial to understand the risks associated with different sorts of altitude sickness and how to evaluate and respond to symptoms.
At this altitude, however, the likelihood of altitude sickness symptoms is significant. Altitude sickness is characterized by a severe headache, poor appetite, shortness of breath, tiredness, sleep disturbances, nausea, racing heart, and severe dehydration. If you suffer any symptoms on your trek to Makalu Sherpani Col Pass, you should seek medical attention.
On the Makalu Sherpani Col Pass Trek, you can avoid altitude sickness by following these suggestions. The most effective treatments for preventing high altitude sickness are adequate acclimatization rest, ascending gently, avoiding alcohol and smoking, staying hydrated, and consuming a large amount of food. Additionally, prepare your mind to reject negative thoughts and appreciate your surroundings.
In accordance with our years of expertise, we will continue to share our knowledge according to the season, health situation, and age range.
Makalu Sherpani Col Pass Trek Packing Suggestions
Please properly pack your luggage for the porter (each of you 15kg, for two of you, a porter is arranged). You will leave the rest of your luggage behind at your hotel until the end of this holiday. Below is a loosely advised Makalu Sherpani Col Pass Trek packing list that might help you in your trek:
- Appropriate clothing (3 sets)
- Woolen sweater or jacket
- Thermal inner wear
- Wide-brimmed hat
- Woolen cap and scarf
- Thick woolen gloves
- Water-proof gloves
- Sport Sandals
- Woolen socks (2 pairs)
- Waterproof (not water-resistant) shoes with a good tread/grip
- Rain-proof pants and jacket with hood
- A lock for the duffle bag
- Backpack with waterproof cover
- Sleeping bag suitable for temperatures around 0°C (1 – optional)
- Down jacket with hood
- Camera (optional) (video camera is not permitted by authority)
Other essential items:
- Personal clothing
- Toiletries
- Small thermos for hot beverages
- Water bottle (1 liter)
- Sunscreen lotion (50 SPF or more)
- Castor oil (50 ml) to lubricate the nostrils at high altitude
- Ziplock bags for clothing
- Quick-dry Towel (not a regular one)
- Toilet paper
- Wet wipes
- Sunglasses
- Snacks – chocolates, biscuits, nuts, etc.
- Hand sanitizer
- Powerful flashlight or headlamp (with extra batteries)
Medical Kit
Though we arrange basic medical kits for Makalu Sherpani Col Pass Trekking, they are very general and may not be adequate based on conditional necessity. A personal medical kit with electrolyte packs, pain killers, muscle relaxant cream, band-aids, knee caps, medicines for fever, common cold, headache, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, indigestion, and any other personal medication is necessary from your side.
Communication in Makalu Sherpani Col Pass Trek
The Makalu Sherpani Col Pass Trek itinerary encounters different landscapes. Even in this age of highly modern information and communication technologies (ICT), the landscapes are challenging to approach development in remote areas. One cause of this is still not properly developing the technologies. As communication is significant while being in such an area, a guide has a mobile that may help to connect you with a networked area. The lodges also have telephones from which you can call for a certain amount of money. Wi-Fi may be available in very few places on this route.
Most asked questions
FAQs about Makalu Sherpani Col Pass Trek
For decades, people have found that living in the Himalayas helps them be and realize a joyful wholeness. As a pilgrim or a hermit, being in the mountains has always been a way to feel happy and complete.
So, we think that trekking at Makalu Sherpani Col Pass is more than just a trip. How you feel about it depends on what you are interested in and how aware you are.
The highest point on the Makalu Sherpani Col Pass Trek is Sherpani Col Pass (6,135 m).
The daily walking is generally between 7-8 hours with short breaks. But, the exact hours depend upon your walking pace.
The Makalu Sherpani Col Pass trip is not for newbies or first-time hikers to Nepal, but those with more experience will be greatly rewarded. The journey provides an expedition-like experience.
This trip is designed for people who have previously hiked on high elevations or have at least been exposed to high altitudes. Over the course of three days, you will approach snow at an altitude of over 5,000 meters.
Trekking to Makalu Sherpani Col Pass is not suggested for new hikers or those on their first Himalayan journey. However, those with more extraordinary life experiences will appreciate the benefits of an amazing trip.
An entry permit is compulsory if you travel to the Makalu region. A special trek permit is always required to enter the limited areas of Nepal that the government has designated for trekking. And, for the permit for the Makalu Sherpani Col Pass trek, you will need the Trekkers’ Information Management System (TIMS), Makalu Barun National Park Entry Permit, Sagarmatha National Park Entry Permit, and Pasang Lhamu Municipality Entrance Fee.
The permission concerns your protection while going through protected zones. It assures your safety while exploring specific areas, and the amount you pay is used to improve the facility and make it more visitor-friendly.
Our Makalu Sherpani Col Pass itinerary length is one of the best for everyone. Lack of time to acclimate to changes in the atmosphere, humidity, or pH may result in high altitude sickness and other complications if the route is shortened. At high elevations, your body requires time to generate additional red blood cells to compensate for the lower oxygen saturation in the blood.
However, if you wish to spend more time in the Makalu Sherpani Col Pass Himalayas, we have the best alternatives to extend the days and tailor your itinerary to your specifications. Feel free to contact us; our team will create your dream package following your instructions.
You must travel with a Makalu Sherpani Col Pass guide if you purchase this package from us. When you travel with a local agency such as ours, your safety is a priority. The staff always delivers the best alternative for picking lodging, cuisine, overcoming language barriers, and even the schedule. Additionally, they will aid you with permits, domestic flights, and porters, as well as the full trek.
Additionally, the trip is long enough with high elevations. If you have high altitude sickness, you will be accompanied by qualified personnel who will monitor your symptoms from the start. They will be accustomed with such high elevations and fauna and will guide you through each step of the learning process. You are not required to bring a guide on this hike if you are an independent hiker, but your walk will be hassle-free if you do.
The battery will drain quickly if exposed to a cold environment. So you need to charge your device more frequently. You can recharge the battery in the lodge where you spend your night. The lodge is powered by solar energy, so you will need to pay an extra fee.
You can also pack a spare battery or a portable power bank for backup. Sometimes there will be power cuts or low voltage, so it will be best to carry extra batteries.
It is essential to check health and fitness when traveling through high-altitude regions. It helps to ensure a safe and comfortable experience for all the trekkers.
We are happy to welcome you to EBC with your family and kids, as we believe nature help kids in different ways. With a professional guide, we can complete the trek smoothly. But we will not advise bringing the children inappropriately low age (lower than five years) for high-altitude walking.
Prepare your kids with simple workouts and breathing exercises for at least one month to prepare for this trek. We also serve you kid carry service, so kindly let us know if you need one during the inquiry.
Although the flights between Kathmandu and Lukla are typically stable, they may be postponed for the entire day if the weather is terrible. One extra day is included in our 14-day program in case of delays. However, we recommend you plan a few additional spare days in Nepal, just in case, to be prepared.
Please note that we will be rebooking your flight for the following day if your flight to Kathmandu is delayed. We might potentially be able to offer a privately chartered helicopter as an alternative. In every way we can, we will work to help you in arranging a flying service. As an agent, we will do all possible to work with airlines to set up your comfortable journey.
You may be able to reserve a helicopter upon request. The cost of the helicopter for you and your guide does not come from the package price if you want this service. Extra hotel stays and meals are omitted if you spend overnight waiting for the next day’s flight. Still, we will make accommodation arrangements for you if you prefer to stay overnight and wait for the next day’s departure.
Before beginning the journey, we already impose complete payments on several costs, including permits, taxes, and others. Please be aware that we must fully compensate our guides and porters for the time they have committed, even if you choose not to finish the entire trek. We find it very difficult to issue refunds for any reason.
Sometimes hikers finish their journey sooner than expected or decide to terminate it early for personal or health reasons. Kindly be aware that we do not grant refunds for any portion of the trek that is not used. This also totally depends on the circumstances, but we request you not to expect any refund for the reasons mentioned above.
Our target for a fixed departure is 12 visitors. If the visitor doesn’t reach 12 within the given period, the trip will be shifted to a customized package, which changes the price, including terms and conditions.
We provide you with a very reasonable cost on fixed departure because of the group size. If the group requirement doesn’t fulfill, we will redesign the program again according to the trip that has been booked. Go through the other pricing if you want to book the trip on your date, or contact us if you need to customize your trip.
Note: We do not customize the program of fixed departure. If you do not want to be part of a fixed departure and make your package, please get in touch with us for the special customized package. Our team will happily assist you with their experienced advice and recommendations.
We highly suggest you engage in physical activities three months before the trip to prepare yourself physically and mentally. Additionally, we offer the Soldhunga Hike as part of our quick acclimation training trip. You can utilize this hike as a very tiny preview of what to expect on your main journey in the existence of the central Himalayas.
We request that you ask our ground team in Kathmandu for assistance in arranging day tours around the city. If you still have a few days or a week after the trek, we can also set up one of the following quick relaxation trips: Feel free to pick the one you think will best suit your interests.
- Pokhara
- Lumbini
- Ghandruk
- Chitwan Safari
With the expectation that you will prefer to rest and recuperate rather than hike again, we have given you plenty of extra vacation days. Please inform us if there are any other destinations you would like to visit.
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